A "puppet master" refers to a person who controls puppets, typically in a theatrical performance. This individual skillfully manipulates the strings or mechanisms that allow the puppets to move, creating the illusion of life. Puppet masters often use their creativity to tell stories and entertain audiences through various forms of puppetry, such as marionettes or hand puppets. In a broader context, the term "puppet master" can also describe someone who manipulates or controls others behind the scenes, often in political or social situations. This usage implies a level of influence and power, where the puppet master orchestrates actions without being directly visible, similar to how a puppeteer operates their puppets.